News:

Liberal Studies

Contact

John Rowe Director of Graduate Admissions

(315) 792-3010

Master of Science in Liberal Studies

Student-Centered, Interdisciplinary Master's Program

Online Graduate Study

Program Overview

The online Master of Science degree in Liberal Studies offers students an opportunity for intellectual growth and career enhancement through innovative, student-centered interdisciplinary study. It is a flexible alternative to a disciplinary degree that provides students opportunities to design curricula that will be of direct benefit to them in their chosen career.

Academics

The program is designed to allow students from a variety of academic backgrounds to explore a broad range of subjects. While the program's content will differ for each student, it will serve to broaden the individual's perspective and enhance their ability to think critically, clearly, and analytically.

Social Sciences (includes courses in Anthropology, Economics and Sociology)

The Master of Science degree in Liberal Studies is a fully accredited graduate degree program approved by the New York State Education Department. Students may enroll full-time or part-time, spring, summer, and fall. For more information about this program, contact John Rowe, director of graduate admissions, at (315) 792-3010, or by e-mail at gradstudies@utica.edu.

Admissions Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution

Minimum GPA of 3.0

Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the graduate liberal studies committee if the student's activities since college demonstrate the ability to succeed in graduate study. Students admitted who do not meet the minimum requirements will be on probationary status. After the completion of three classes (9 credits), the student must have a 3.0 GPA to remain in the program.

Two letters of recommendation.

An essay detailing the potential student's intellectual goals and his or her understanding of liberal education.

GRE scores may be required.

Academic Requirements

Transfer Credit

All graduate credits taken prior to matriculation are subject to evaluation and approval by the M.S. in Liberal Studies program director. A maximum of 6 transfer credits from another accredited college may be applied to the program. Courses taken at Utica College or elsewhere more than five years before matriculation cannot be used to meet the program's degree requirements.

As an institution of higher learning, Utica College strives to protect the integrity of its degree. Transfer credit will only be awarded if the student has earned a grade of B or better. Students who have transferred six (6) of the credits required for their degree from another institution may not take additional course work at another institution. Forms for the purpose of obtaining permission for course work at other institutions are available at the Academic Support Services Center, in the Registrar's Office, and in all of the division offices.

Non-Matriculated Study

Students who hold baccalaureate degrees from accredited institutions may take two graduate courses without enrolling in the degree program. Students wishing to change their status from non-matriculated to matriculated must enroll in the degree program before taking their third graduate level course at Utica College. Successful completion of the two graduate courses does not imply or guarantee acceptance into the M.S. in Liberal Studies Program.

Tuition and Fees

Financial Aid

More than 90% of students attending Utica College receive some form of financial assistance. Graduate students may be eligible for federal or state financial aid, or for federal student loans. To apply, please complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and submit it to the processing center with Utica College's Title IV School Code of 002883. The College will determine the student's federal loan eligibility and mail him/her the loan application form.

Utica College offers a deferred payment plan that allows students to pay in installments over the semester, and our Student Financial Services staff can assist you in exploring opportunities for financial assistance.

Questions regarding this process, or other financial aid matters, should be directed to the Office of Student Financial Services at (315) 792-3179.